Larry Kent Gilbreath
December 28, 1945 – December 7, 2024

Kent Gilbreath, a beloved husband, father, professor, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in Valley Mills, Texas. Born on December 28, 1945, in Waco, and raised in Valley Mills, Kent was a true Texan, deeply connected to the land and the people he loved.

A Baylor Bear through and through, Kent dedicated his life to his family, his students, and his passion for teaching. After beginning his career as a professor, Kent embarked on a transformative journey with World Campus Afloat, his second teaching position. This unique experience set the stage for his return to Texas and his lifelong commitment to Baylor University, where he became a cornerstone of the community. For decades, Kent served as beloved professor in the Economics Department and several years as Associate Dean of the Hankamer School of Business.  While his lectures were filled with wit, wisdom, and the occasional nerve-wracking Socratic question, it was his genuine care for his students and his community that set him apart. Kent believed in the power of education to transform lives, and his greatest joy came from mentoring students and helping them find their paths, both in and out of the classroom.

Beyond academia, Kent served on the 12th District Federal Reserve Board in Dallas, where he brought his expertise and dedication to matters of significant economic importance. He was also an esteemed expert witness, contributing his deep knowledge of economics to various cases.  When he wasn't on campus or contributing his insights to his professional roles, Kent could often be found at the ranch he and his wife Shirley called their home. The ranch was his sanctuary—a place where he could unwind, work the land, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether it was a quiet evening watching the sunset and reading poetry with Shirley, walking the property with their dogs, or sharing stories with friends over a dram of good whiskey or a cup of coffee, Kent found peace and happiness there.

Kent's greatest pride was his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, JB and Hazel Gilbreath, and his adored big brother, James Gilbreath. He is survived by his devoted wife of over 56 years, Shirley; their two daughters, Genevieve and Cinnamon; and two grandchildren, Kapila Max and Matilda Grace, as well as his much-loved sister, nieces, and nephews. He taught his family the value of hard work, the importance of kindness, and the joy of a life well-lived.

Kent was a man of integrity, humor, and quiet strength.  His legacy lives on in the lives of those he taught, loved, and inspired.
A celebration of Kent's life will be held in the coming months. In honor of his love for education and his unwavering support for his students, the family kindly requests donations to Baylor's Economics Endowed Excellence Fund in lieu of flowers. Donations can be made directly at this link: https://bbis.baylor.edu/give?id=49837&a=2&f=434MAFC&scode=25_MT_GILBREATH
Kent Gilbreath will be missed dearly but will always be remembered for the love and wisdom he shared with the world. Rest easy, Kent—your legacy lives on in every life you touched.

Larry Kent Gilbreath Memorial Video

Please join us in remembering Kent by signing our guestbook at
fossfuneralhome.com